First Weekend Away

I can count on two hands the number of times I have not been home to kiss Sam goodnight. And on the rare occasion that I’ve been away, I’ve always been here to lift him out of his crib in the morning. That’s less than ten times in about 450 days. It’s not because I don’t appreciate the time “off,” it’s just what I do. And I love it.

But Nick and I are in need of a getaway. After a somber December and a busy start to 2013, this opportunity could not have come at a better time. Nick has to be in Chicago next week for work, and so we decided that he would fly out early and I would join him for three days in the windy (and frigid) city.

My parents plan to arrive tomorrow night and will spend the long weekend with Sam and Lucy. I’m very tempted to install a hidden camera just so we can laugh at their reaction to the craziness of our home. (Kidding, Mom and Dad, I know you’ll be fine.)

As for me and Nick, well, we plan to sleep past our typical puppy whine wake up call. And we can’t wait to eat a meal without toddler hands grabbing food from our plates. We look forward to meandering around the city, eating leisurely dinners, and enjoying a few cocktails. Oh, yes, we are in need of this getaway.

So far, our very loose itinerary includes: Millennium Park and Willis Tower, The Spice House, a blues club, and (hopefully) Frontera Grill and Girl and the Goat. But I would love to hear your suggestions, too! What are your favorite things to do/sights to see/places to eat in Chicago?

We’ll miss this kid, but I know we’ll return well-rested and anxious to receive his big bear hugs.

our kid

11 thoughts on “First Weekend Away

  1. How fun! I’ve always wanted to eat at one of Rick Bayless’ restaurants – I think Frontera would probably be my pick too. I’ve heard Girl and the Goat is supposed to be amazing. Enjoy your weekend!

  2. Oh so fun that you’re getting away just the two of you!! I LOVE Chicago…would move there in a heartbeat! I know you guys love your beer so if you get a chance check out Piece Brewery & Pizzeria..good stuff! Or if you’re in the mood for some deep dish Lou Malnati’s is awesome 🙂 Have so much fun!!

  3. If you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, Yolk will certainly fit the bill. I went to the location on S. Michigan Ave, so you are basically across the street from the park (but I imagine that the park is a little better when weather is warm!).
    Have a great time getting a little break from the daily routine!!!

  4. Jeff and I have yet to go away for a weekend by ourselves….it’s much needed, but I’m not sure if I’m ready yet 🙁 The Girl and the Goat looks amazing! So jealous…I just watched an episode of The Layover and I wanted everything he had! So jealous! I’ve never been to Chicago so I don’t have any recommendations…can’t wait to see where you guys went.

  5. have a wonderful time!!!!!! Jon and I have never left P without one of us for more than an hour or two….. I’m in SUCH need of a getaway but considering that our families don’t live nearby and that she’s VERY much not into strangers (anyone she doesnt see on a daily basis), it hasn’t been a possibility. I’m so jealous!

  6. Enjoy, you deserve it! My sister lives in Chicago, and I’ve enjoyed a great, casual breakfast (and massive cinnamon buns) at Ann Sathers. The Signature Room is a fun place to grab a cocktail (though it’s pricey and may not be where you want to spend the whole night!).

  7. Y’all are going to have SO much fun! We loved visiting Chicago for long weekends when we were at Purdue.

    Ryan and I have both been away from Lila overnight separately, but still haven’t gotten a getaway together yet– I look forward to that day!! 🙂

  8. We had lunch at Topolobampo a couple years ago and it was SO amazing. You will enjoy Frontera. GET A MARGARITA. And, Bill had a business dinner at Girl and the Goat (Henry and I weren’t invited, BOO) and he raved about it.

    I really, really love Quartino for Italian small plates. Also, there’s a restaurant way in the back of the food court of the Water Tower Place called Mity Nice that is great for comfort food.

    Have so much fun! Our first weekend away from Henry was tough, but I’m glad we did it. I think it was good for our marriage and also good for Henry to bond with Grandma and Grandpa.

  9. The Bongo Room in Wicker Park is great for breakfast (there is also fun shopping in the area). Floriole Cafe & Bakery in Lincoln Park is a great bakery. Hope you have so much fun!

Leave a Reply to stephanie Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *